NEW BEDFORD -- Captain Robert M. Chace, age 88, of South Dartmouth, died on Monday, January 8, 2007, at Hathaway Manor Extended Care Facility. He was the husband of Aurore (Lafond) Chace.
Born in Pawtucket, R.I., Bob was the son of the late Albert and Cora (Heath) Chace and lived in this community all of his life.
A graduate of Dartmouth High School, he received his maritime training aboard the USS Nantucket and at age 26 was made Captain and sailed aboard many ships with the Merchant Marine. Bob was also a veteran of WWII.
A member of the First Unitarian Church in New Bedford, Bob owned and operated Chace Grain and Garden Supplies for 35 years. He was a life member of the Mass. Maritime and the N.B. Port Society, a town meeting member for many years, a 25 year member of the New Bedford Yacht Club, a member of the Model Railroad Club, and a mariner leader with the Girl Scouts. Happiest when sailing, he was a mentor to many and a friend to all.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his son, Peter Chace and his wife, Jami of Acushnet; his daughters, Deborah A. Hayes and Ann C. Sheldon, both of So. Dartmouth; his brother, Leonard Chace and his wife, Priscilla of Florida; six grandchildren, Christina Shipman, Windy, Stacy, Eliza, Andrew and Peter Chace; three great-grandchildren, Melody and Patrick Shipman and Zachery Magary; and numerous nieces and nephews.
His memorial service will take place on Thursday, January 11th at 11 A.M. in the Wilson Chapel, 479 County St., New Bedford. Remembrances may be made in his name to the Alzheimer's Association, 311 Arsenal St., Watertown, MA. 02472.